Tag: precautions

Across the state at our different properties we have communities that have gardens right on property. We even have some residents (at their choosing) that manage the porch plants at their properties. As a person that lacks a green thumb, I’m so grateful! Gardening is good for you, and research confirms that the health benefits are striking for those who have reached the age of AARP eligibility. Routine activity — such as a little bit of gardening every day —promotes a longer, healthier life. So, what are the benefits?

Some benefits of GARDENING include:

Helps mobility and flexibility

Encourages use of all motor skills

Can improve endurance and strength

Helps prevent diseases such as osteoporosis

Reduces stress levels

While there are many wonderful benefits of gardening, you still must be SAFE and use precautions!

Last week we had our annual flu shot clinic at our community. I’ll admit that I never started getting a flu shot until I went to work in the assisted living sector. I had experience with kidney stones, sinus infections, broken bones, and surgeries. But no flu. But the first year I got the flu shot….NO…I didn’t get the flu, but my husband and daughter…both (who did not get their flu shot that year) got the flu and it was rough. But as rough as it can be on school-aged children and middle-aged adults…it can be much more serious for the elderly or those with compromised immune systems. Here are a few helpful reminders to consider as we approach flu season.

Get your Flu shots!

In our communities’ we offer flu shots annually to protect our residents and staff. It is something that we take very seriously as it can be a dangerous situation for an elderly person to get the flu. Nowadays you have options! You can get your shot with your family physician or many pharmacies have flu shots available onsite. Remember that when you get the flu shot, it takes about two weeks for it to begin working. So, you want to get your shots ahead of the flu season curve.

Sniffles? See you next time!

What may sound rude, is just smart advice. If you don’t feel well or you have a child that doesn’t feel good…find another time to visit an assisted living community. What we can shake off easily may prove a huge obstacle for a senior citizen to bounce back. The CDC provides this list of flu symptoms to watch for:

Fever* or feeling feverish/chills

Cough

Sore throat

Runny or stuffy nose

Muscle or body aches

Headaches

Fatigue (tiredness)

Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

* It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, plan to visit another time when you are well.

Clean up Your Act!

The CDC states that:

People with flu can spread it to others up to about 6 feet away. Most experts think that flu viruses are spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Less often, a person might also get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth or nose. That is why hand washing is key!

It also is important to wash hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub. However, use caution with these type sanitizers and children.

So, use good judgment this flu season and do your part to protect yourself and others. We love to have visitors in our communities. But if you are sick, we will just plan to see you when you are well! When you see our healthy visit reminder signs posted at your local Great Oaks Management Communities, just know it is part of our mission for seniors – to be happy and healthy.